Costs soar for project hoped to replace landslide-hit road between Harrogate and Skipton
"Volatile conditions" in the construction industry mean costs have risen by £7 million for the project
Despite original estimations costing £61.6 million - the estimated cost to replace a major landslide-hit carriageway in North Yorkshire has soared to almost £70 million.
The major project has seen its costs rise due to “volatile conditions” in the construction industry.
Original estimations by North Yorkshire County Council suggested the new carriageway for the A59 at Kex Gill would cost £61.6 million - that now stands at £68.8 million.
The extra costs were agreed at an executive meeting yesterday.
Councillor Gareth Dadd, deputy leader of the county council, said: “I wouldn’t say I’m pleased to be having to recommend a further £7.2 million for the Kex Gill project.
“But nonetheless it shows our commitment to major road improvement.”
The A59 at Kex Gill has been hit by 12 landslides in as many years, causing long diversions for motorists and extra costs for the local authority.
Despite several years of talks and plans, it was hoped construction would start last autumn - this has since been hit by several delays.
Those delays were partly because of objections to compulsory land purchase orders needed for the new carriageway.
Minerals company Sibelco also attempted to call in the project for a public inquiry, but this was rejected by the government.
There is now an aim for construction to begin in January, with completion in early 2025.
Most of the funding is coming from the Department of Transport, which has agreed to provide £56 million, while the remainder will be stumped-up by the county council which will use Brexit support cash to cover the extra costs.